How can parents become better informed about the importance of fostering an early appreciation for diversity?
Sue: For parents who want children to be good, decent and moral individuals who believe in our democracy, the time for intervention is early. Whether we are talking about race, gender or any kind of differences, no matter what words you use, inclusion has to be a part of the conversation early on. Killen: A lot of parents seem to think that teaching kids to appreciate difference is something that’s nice if you do it, but then it doesn’t really matter if you don’t do it. I think the No. 1 thing is to connect it to academic achievement, to make the connection for parents that kids who are better prepared to get along with others are going to do better in school. It’s important that kids learn how to get along because they will have to interact with different groups of people in school, and if not school, then ultimately in the workplace one day.
